And guess what, if your using a proxy thinking that will protect from disclosure as an agent, nope, it doesn't, you have to disclose it even then. 

For on the ground evaluations, I rely on local contacts: agents, contractors, or even property inspectors to provide walkthrough videos and detailed feedback.

Now way in hell would I pay more then 7X even for the white-glove silver platter delivery. 

I would recommend finding a real estate cpa even for one property.

Even if you rent the house for $2,000 a month, you will still lose because of maintenance, vacancies, and the expensive mistakes common with newer investors.You can borrow up to 70% of the equity.

When I was a tenant, admittedly a long time ago, I would turn off the air conditioning when I went away for a weekend in the summer, even though I was not paying for the heat/air condtioning. 

I will say that even though you get the boost from VRBO and AirBNB, the first year of operation is usually lean as you build up the rep.Offering a discount on the stay is a way to be more attractive but don't go crazy.

A local property manager will make this much easier and handle the visits for you.Single-family homes can still do well, even with more apartments popping up, as they cater to tenants who want privacy and space.

However, the units I see myself living in all barely break even on cashflow.

Great tools that get updated regularly.I am on the lending side of things and would be happy to hop on a call with you anytime to discuss financial strategies and help answer any questions you may have about nearly any loan product available to help you on your journey, even if they are not products my capital partners offer.We are all here to help you learn and grow.